HIV/AIDS in Georgia

Abstract

At a level of 0.13 percent, current HIV prevalence in Georgia is relatively low. Georgia bears high potential, however, for rapid spread of an HIV epidemic. The low prevalence of infection contributes significantly to a lack of awareness about the potential crisis among the Georgian population. Stigma and fear of discrimination among people living with HIV and AIDS (PLWHA) in Georgia encourages them to conceal their HIV status. The majority of HIV-positive individuals are former or current injection drug users, commercial sex workers, or other marginalized community members, which further strengthens the stigma associated with HIV infection.